Center booster vs. Radian 65 outboard?

[julia]

I have to weigh using a booster center vs. a 5 point Radian 65 outboard. I tried a Radian 65 and it will not install solid in my center seat. I hate to sit him next to the side of the car if I don't have to. What if we get broadsided? Would he be safer center in a booster, away from the impact? Also, does anyone know how long the replacement buckle strap is for the Radian 65 compared to the one it comes with? I've had problems with my current Alpha Omega one being a pain because it's so short. Thanks!

[CDNTech]

A 5pt harness is *always* going to be safer than a booster regardless of which backseat position it is in. I'd go with the Radian.

[Defrost]

The odds of getting broad-sided are lower than a frontal collision. Add to that, the odds of getting broad-sided on the side he's on are even lower.

A 5-pt harness adds it's own level of side-impact protection because it minimizes how far the body will move sideways. It won't be the same level as adding side-curtain airbags or foam-filled headwings to the mix, but it's still going to provide considerably more protection than a booster in the center position.

[Melizerd]

:yeahthat:

[joolsplus3]

What age and weight child? What car? Do you have a shoulderbelt in the center? Does your car have curtain airbags in the back seat?

Lots to consider, depending on the answers! :)

[julia]

"What age and weight child? What car? Do you have a shoulderbelt in the center? Does your car have curtain airbags in the back seat?"


He is four years old, 40 pounds, Lexus ES300 2004, yes it does have shoulderbelt in the center and yes it does have side airbags.

I really appreciate all this input from everyone!! You wouldn't believe all of the bad info I've gotten from Lexus and car seat retailers!!

[joolsplus3]

I'd go Radian outboard :)

A harnessed seat has good side impact protection just by it's nature. (especially the Radian, which has undergone some form of SIP testing and has EPS foam for head protection).

:)

[jen_nah]

I'd go Radian outboard :)

A harnessed seat has good side impact protection just by it's nature. (especially the Radian, which has undergone some form of SIP testing and has EPS foam for head protection).

:)

I agree with Julie esp since you vehicle has side curtain airbags. Also at his age & weight he is just the bare mininum for a booster. He is far more protected in a 5pt harness in the outboard position then he is in the center in a booster.

Both my dd's (ages 6 & 4) are in the outboard position in Britax Marathons. In a vehicle that does not have side curtain airbags. Am I concerned about their protection of course or I wouldn't be a CPST or a good mother. But, I am doing everything I possibly can to protect them in the vehicle.

[julia]

Thank you so much!! Radian it is.